George MacDonald (December 10, 1824-- September 18, 1905) was a prolific writer, poet and Christian Congregational minister. He was a pioneering figure in the field of modern fantasy literature and the mentor of fellow writer Lewis Carroll. In addition to his fairy tales, MacDonald wrote several works of Christian theology, including several collections of sermons. MacDonald and his work profoundly influenced C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and the rest of the Oxford Inklings.